San Marcos Vacations

Things to do in and around San Marcos

San Marcos, Texas, offers a variety of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. You can enjoy shopping at local malls and outlet centers, explore scenic bike trails, and visit educational attractions. For those looking for excitement, check out nearby surfing spots and a theme park, making it a great destination for a fun-filled vacation.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience in San Marcos, visit the San Marcos Premium Outlets for a wide selection of brands and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out the Central Texas Bonsai Exhibit at Jade Gardens, located 11 miles away, or Plaza East, just 8 miles from downtown.

Recreation

Experience relaxation at Rio Vista Park, where you can stroll along scenic trails and enjoy nature's tranquility. For sports enthusiasts, Bobcat Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for various events. Meanwhile, Quail Creek Golf Club provides a refreshing outdoor escape with beautiful greens and a serene setting for golf lovers.

Adventure

At Schlitterbahn New Braunfels Waterpark, located 16 miles from San Marcos, thrill-seekers can enjoy exhilarating water slides and lazy rivers. Wimberley Zipline Adventures, 12 miles away, offers breathtaking views as you soar through the treetops. For a fun-filled day on the water, Texas Tubes, also 16 miles away, provides exciting tubing experiences.

Nightlife

San Marcos boasts a vibrant nightlife with options like The Marc, featuring live music and dancing. For a relaxed vibe, visit the Taproom, known for its craft beers. Don’t miss The Gristmill for riverside dining and drinks, creating a perfect blend of fun and relaxation.

Find the best attractions in and around San Marcos

San Marcos, Texas, is an ideal destination for family-friendly vacations and outdoor adventures. This charming city offers a variety of attractions, including urban parks and scenic rivers, perfect for those seeking cultural experiences and fun activities. Whether you're exploring nature or enjoying the vibrant local scene, San Marcos caters to travelers looking for a blend of relaxation and excitement.

• Texas State University: Experience the vibrant culture at Texas State University, a historic institution nestled in San Marcos. Explore its beautiful campus, rich history, and engaging student life, which offers a unique blend of academic excellence and community spirit.
• San Marcos River: Discover the scenic beauty of the San Marcos River, located 0.3 miles from downtown. This picturesque river is perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking, tubing, or leisurely walks along the banks, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
• John J. Stokes Sr. San Marcos River Park: Enjoy family-friendly fun at John J. Stokes Sr. San Marcos River Park, an urban oasis featuring picnic areas, walking trails, and playgrounds, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor adventures in the heart of the city.

Best time to go to San Marcos

The best time to visit San Marcos can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San Marcos falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in San Marcos falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
April	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
July	84.2°F (29.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	85.3°F (29.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
November	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
December	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to San Marcos

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling to San Marcos during the low season (August and December to January) for more affordable options.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.